“When you are praying, do not heap up empty phrases as the gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him. “Pray, then, in this way: Our Father in heaven, may your name be revered as holy. May your kingdom come. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us today our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. And do not bring us to the time of trial, but rescue us from the evil one. “For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you, but if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses. (Matthew 6:7-15, NRSVue)
I have always pondered why we repeat this prayer word for word (well, translated word for translated word) every week when Jesus says, “Pray in this way…”
He did not say repeat these words for all time, or say these words when you pray.
He said, Here is a model for how you can pray. These are not empty words, or eloquent words that make an impression. These are true words from the heart.
Parent, please be with me and help me to be with you. Help me to bring your love to fulfillment in this place and to help your reign come to be. Remind me that all I need is given to me by you, and help me to not desire more than that. Help me to forgive as you have already forgiven me. Help me to not walk away or lead others away from you, but in everything help me to love as you love me and to help all creation live into your bountiful love.
aSacredRebel 